ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- The Maryland Senate voted 43-4 to fine people who send text messages while driving a vehicle.

The measure is the latest attempt by a state to take aim at a practice that is favored by younger drivers, according to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, The Washington Post reported Wednesday.

The Maryland measure makes it a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 for anyone to write, send or read a text message while operating a motor vehicle.

Before voting, the chamber heard from a Maryland couple whose 26-year-old daughter died in a traffic accident after being distracted by text messaging.

The legislation now moves to the Maryland House of Delegates where passage is expected.

Eight states and the District of Columbia have passed prohibitions against the practice including Maryland's neighbor, Virginia.